Cancer and Fertility
- Department of Urology Lerner College of Medicine Cleveland Clinic Cleveland , OH , USA Humana Press 2016
- 232 Pages
We are fortunate to live in a time where, despite a growing incidence of cancer in patients in their reproductive years, medical advances have allowed for long-term survival in the majority of such individuals. While cancer cure must remain our paramount goal, a growing number of patients face quality of life sequela from both the effects of the malignancy and the subsequent treatment. Numerous surveys of pre- and postpubertal cancer survivors reveal disappointment and regret over failure to consider fertility preservation during the period of cancer treatment. This text is unique in its consideration of reproductive options for both male and female cancer survivors. Drawing on the experience of international experts in the field, this textbook is designed to provide a summary of stateof- the-art developments in fertility and its association with cancer for both new and experienced practitioners. The text provides a comprehensive review of normal female and male reproductive physiology as well as the impact of oncologic treatments on orderly germ cell development. In addition, focus is placed on the management of cancer diagnoses during pregnancy. Finally, future fertility preservation options including stem cell preservation as well as surgical germ cell harvest techniques are reviewed in depth. It is intended to be clear, concise, and readable to allow the reader to obtain rapid answers to this challenging medical issue. Special emphasis is placed on diagnostic and treatment algorithms to aid in standardized evaluations and management of these patients. The text is designed for urologists, gynecologists, medical and surgical oncologists, primary care providers, and allied health providers who have the privilege of assisting with fertility in both men and women. It is indeed an amazing time to treat cancer patients as we move beyond a sole focus of cancer survival to all components of survivorship. In young patients who dream of a future family, no component of future quality of life is as important as future fertility. It is incumbent upon providers to understand the impact of various medical, surgical, and radiation treatments on a patient’s reproductive potential. We hope this book stimulates your interest in this issue as we partner to assist these patients toward a fulfilling post-cancer life